As the summer heats up, so does the fantasy baseball waiver wire. This week's top pickups are packed with emerging relief pitchers and outfielders who could give your roster a much-needed boost. Whether you're chasing saves or looking for a spark in the outfield, these players are ready to make an impact.
First up, Connelly Early (SP, Red Sox, 47% rostered) is making a name for himself in Boston. The 24-year-old has been a model of consistency, allowing three runs or fewer in all but one of his eight starts this season. His latest outing was his best yet—seven shutout innings with eight strikeouts against the Rays. While a matchup with the high-powered Braves offense this Friday gives some pause, Early's upside is too tantalizing to ignore. He's a must-add in most formats.
Another arm to watch is Zebby Matthews (SP, Twins, 4% rostered). Matthews has teased fantasy managers for years with an impressive strikeout-to-walk ratio, but hard contact has been his Achilles' heel. That narrative shifted Thursday when he was recalled from Triple-A and promptly held the Marlins scoreless over seven innings. If he can keep that momentum, he's a valuable addition in 12-team leagues and a must-add in deeper formats.
On the relief side, Gregory Soto (RP, Pirates, 42% rostered) has emerged as Pittsburgh's clear closer. Manager Don Kelly has turned to Soto in three of the team's last four save opportunities, and the right-hander has delivered with a dominant 11.0 K/9 rate. His consistency and swing-and-miss stuff have pushed him past Dennis Santana for the ninth-inning role. In leagues where saves are hard to come by, Soto is a priority pickup.
Finally, Rico Garcia (RP, Orioles, 36% rostered) is stepping up while closer Ryan Helsley recovers from right elbow inflammation. With Helsley not yet throwing, Garcia has a prime opportunity to rack up saves in a strong Baltimore bullpen. Fantasy managers in need of short-term help should grab him now.
If you're looking for infield help or streaming starters, don't miss the Weekend Streamers section below. These temporary options can make all the difference in head-to-head matchups. Happy hunting!